title: Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tubes: the nurse's role in a moral, ethical, and legal dilemma.
abstract: The introduction of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tubes (PEG) has enabled us to prolong the life of those who would otherwise die of malnutrition. This option has forced the medical community and society to consider the implications of this procedure not only for their loved ones but for themselves. What are the factors that influence the implementation of this procedure and what are the ramifications of this action? Concern for a loved one is but one issue. There is a far more universal impact. This article explores some of the considerations for the use of feeding tubes.
authors.forename: D C
authors.initials: DC
authors.lastname: Barnie
mesh_terms: D004724:Endoscopy / Q000451:nursing*; D004993:Ethics, Nursing; D005774:Gastrostomy / Q000451:nursing*; D006801:Humans; D007587:Job Description; D010344:Patient Advocacy / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D018570:Risk Assessment; D014481:United States; D028761:Withholding Treatment